Paint protection film is a relatively cheap vehicle accessory that can preserve the aesthetics of your vehicle for longer. But what makes it good? Are there better alternatives? Is it even worth it?
In this blog, we will address the question ‘Is PPF worth it: Does paint protection film really work?’
The UK automotive after market industry is thriving, ranking fourth in Europe and ninth in the world in terms of size, and turning over an annual £21.1 billion.
The sector supports 345,600 jobs and contributes £12.2 billion each year to the economy. And it is growing: the sector’s value is set to rise to £28 billion by 2022.
That’s why we at Car Specialist Customs are here to provide you with all the information you require to get the best car customisation possible, whilst being as informed as possible.
What is it Paint protection film?
Paint protection film is a form of vinyl wrap that is placed over the body of the vehicle. It is commonly referred to as a vehicle wrap. Vehicle wraps come in multiple forms, they are:
- A clear vehicle wrap – This is paint protection film.
- Coloured vehicle wrap – This is an alternative to painting a vehicle, placing a coloured wrap over the vehicle instead.
- Custom wrap—A custom vehicle wrap is made to the specification of the client, this can be anything from shapes to advertising a business.
Paint protection film provides a thin film of vinyl over the body of the vehicle. This layer provides a level of protection against day to day scratches and scuffs, and other issues that you can experience in general driving situations on normal roads or motorways.
Can anyone get a paint protection film?
Yes, paint protection film can be applied on any type of vehicle, understandably, the size and amount of film required will affect the cost of application.
If your vehicle is leased, seek permission from the lease company before making any commitments to apply the film. That being said, as long as the applicator is a reputable customiser like Car Specialist Customs, it should be okay.
How much is paint protection film?
Paint protection film can vary in cost depending on the size of your vehicle, and if you require additional or custom requests in applying the paint protection film.
Is PPF worth it: Does paint protection film really work?
Yes, PPF is definitely worth it. If you’re looking for a relatively inexpensive accessory that can preserve your vehicle’s aesthetic from passive elements you encounter from driving, paint protection film is the solution.
Paint protection film also works to a degree against keying, this is when somebody purposely scrapes your vehicle by using a key. This can devastate the paintwork of vehicles and create a permanent mark. In some cases, having a PPF covered vehicle that is keyed, can sometimes result in only the film being damaged, preserving the paint.
PPF also protects against UV rays, as most vehicles in the UK are on driveways rather than in a garage, it is safe to assume that these vehicles are bombarded by UV rays. As time goes on, it begins to affect the vibrancy of the paintwork, making the most brilliant colours fade to a dull and old-looking coat.
With this understanding, it is imperative to have PPF on your vehicle if you intend to preserve your vehicle for as long as possible. This can also be handy in instance of wrapping a leased vehicle.
How long does PPF last?
Paint protection film, if correctly looked after, can last up to 7 years. That being said, paint protection film provided by Car Specialist Customs has a 3-year warranty as a minimum. The lifespan of PPF can be extended by doing the following:
- Clean the vehicle with vehicle wrap friendly car cleaning products.
- Store your vehicle in a garage, or a covered space, whenever possible.
- Avoid parking in compromising areas/positions.
- Not tampering with the PPF
- Following the directions provided by the installer.
Can PPF be damaged?
Yes, PPF can be damaged. PPF damage can happen as a result of:
- Purposeful removal without the right equipment.
- Accidents and car crashes.
- Certain chemicals, ranging from bird faeces, to chemicals in non vehicle wrap friendly car cleaning products.
- Keying the vehicle the PPF is on.
- Scraping or peeling the PPF.
Does paint protection film damage the vehicle?
Paint protection film is not designed to damage the vehicle it is applied to. However, if incorrectly applied or removed, it can damage the vehicle’s paintwork. Additionally, if your vehicle already has specific issues, getting PPF can prove to be detrimental to your vehicle’s paintwork.
You should not get PPF if:
- Your vehicle is already dented.
- Your vehicle already has paint damage.
- You already have PPF applied. (It must be removed before adding a new one on).
- Your vehicle is freshly painted.
- You don’t have permission to apply PPF on the vehicle.
The best way to apply paint protection film
Using established vehicle modifiers is the best way to get your vehicle wrapped. Due to their experience, and the equipment they have on hand, there is less room for error.
Car Specialist Customs holds combined years of experience in wrapping vehicles of various shapes and sizes, Our wraps have a warranty for 3 years, ensuring quality and longevity.
When we wrap your vehicle, we make sure to…
- Discuss what kind of wrap you want, and where you would like it.
- Measure the vehicle / relevant areas where the wrap will be applied.
- Clean the vehicle / relevant areas before applying
- Begin our process of application to your vehicle
- Inform you of any maintenance / dos and don’ts when it comes to the longevity of the wrap.
Does paint protection film go over my number plate?
No, paint protection film will cover the body of your vehicle, having a vinyl over the number plate may make it difficult to read for ANPR systems etc. If you are considering reinforcing a number plate, gel plates are a perfectly legal option.
Purchase paint protection film today
Our team members at Car Specialist Customs are extremely passionate and proud of the multiple services and products we provide for the people of Greater Manchester and beyond.
As a fully insured and approved installer, catering to the needs of vehicle owners of Greater Manchester and beyond, we are proud to let you know that we offer services for the following:
Personalisation:
Protection/Security:
Featuring the brands, Pandora, ScorpionTrak, Meta Trak & SmarTrack, we’ve included affordable, and premium products to suit the needs of our customers. With finance options available, and the option of installation, head to our website to get your quote!
We will always go above expectations to make your car feel special to you. With even more services and options becoming available in the future, Car Specialist Customs is the home of making any car unique, secure and special.
See what we can do for you today, we hope the details we shared have helped you decide to take a step forward in personalising your vehicle with our unique service.
We hope to have answered the question ‘Is PPF worth it: Does paint protection film really work?’ whilst also providing supplementary information that can help you make an informed choice when it comes to investing in customisation options for your vehicle.
Want to get in touch? You can find us right here:
WORKSHOP:
Unit 30
Caldershaw Centre
Ings Ln
Rochdale
OL12 7LQ
OPENING TIMES:
Monday to Wednesday – 10 AM—7 PM
Thursday – Closed
Friday to Sunday – 11 AM—7 PM
TELEPHONE:
07523 971347 (Mon – Fri: 8:30 am – 6:00 pm)
EMAIL:
info@carspecialistcustoms.co.uk